Download Article
Download Article
While songbirds like finches, sparrows, bluebirds, and others are a colorful and musical delight, these birds are becoming rarer as their natural habitat dwindles. However, you can help as a bird lover and homeowner by turning your backyard into a safe haven for all of your favorites. Birdseed, a birdbath, and safe nesting spots will make your yard much more inviting, and you will be amazed at how many different species you can attract.
Steps
-
Research birds in your area. Find out what types of birds live in your area or are likely to come to your property through migration. You may want to obtain a field guide to the area in order to know which birds to attract. Aim to create an environment that can support many different species. Bear in mind that you can attract different species depending on the season, as well. [1] X Trustworthy Source The Cornell Lab of Ornithology Research lab of Cornell University dedicated to interpreting and conserving the Earth's biological diversity through research and education about birds Go to source
-
Choose a bird feeder. The type of feeder you choose will influence what bird species you attract. No matter what, your bird feeder should have a few essential qualities: it should keep food dry, and it should be easy to clean. Bird feeders need to be washed out regularly so the food inside remains free of fungi and disease. [2] X Research source Jeff Jones. Bird Specialist. [3] X Trustworthy Source The Cornell Lab of Ornithology Research lab of Cornell University dedicated to interpreting and conserving the Earth's biological diversity through research and education about birds Go to source The most common types of feeders include:
- Tray feeders. Tray feeders are simple, flat trays that allow birds very easy access to seed. Another advantage is that seed is also accessible to squirrels, allowing more diverse wildlife.
- House feeders. These keep the seed in a contained area and dispense it as the birds feed on a small tray at the bottom of the feeder.
- Window feeders. Window feeders attach to your window with suction cups, offering a full view of bird activity. They will attract birds like chickadees, finches, and some kinds of sparrows.
- Suet feeders. Suet feeders are designed to offer suet cakes, which attract different birds like woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees.
- Tube feeders. To attract hummingbirds, use a tube feeder. These dispense sugar water through a tube.
Advertisement -
Provide seed and other food. Birds will be attracted to your yard if you offer them food. However, there are certain things to keep in mind. Do you know what species you are hoping to attract? If you would like to invite a wide range of native species, it's a good idea to have more than one type of feeder and to offer a variety of food. [4] X Trustworthy Source The Cornell Lab of Ornithology Research lab of Cornell University dedicated to interpreting and conserving the Earth's biological diversity through research and education about birds Go to source
- Corn is a favorite among nearly all birds but is to be used sparingly -- it will attract all sorts of animals. It is also important to be careful about the source of the corn since cheap corn can be contaminated with pesticides that are toxic to birds.
- Sunflower seeds are popular among all seed-eating birds, which makes them a good choice if you want a variety of species. However, the shells must be raked up frequently. Sunflower seeds will also tempt squirrels.
- White proso millet is a tasty treat for cardinals, quail, sparrows, doves, and crows. It is also attractive to house sparrows and other animals. Hummingbirds love to drink sugar water, meanwhile, and safflower seeds are good for attracting cardinals, chickadees, doves, sparrows, and grosbeaks.
- Suet, the fat around cow and sheep organs, attracts woodpeckers, nuthatches, wrens, jays, and starlings. Peanut butter makes a good winter food since it is highly nutritious. Just make sure that it doesn't contain additives.
-
Know what foods to avoid. Birds can easily be poisoned by food that is contaminated or contains hard-to-digest ingredients. Be sure to buy high-quality seed or suet. Some cheap manufacturers of bird food cut corners, so consider springing for a more expensive brand. Here are a few foods to avoid putting out:
- Bread, crackers, or other processed carbohydrates do not offer birds much nutritional value and can have toxic ingredients. Bacon drippings or other meats can meanwhile contain harmful nitrates. Both may end up attracting mice and rats instead.
- Cheap feeds often contain “filler seeds” that are not eaten like red millet, golden millet, oats, and flax. Be sure to check the ingredients in the purchased feed.
-
Install the feeder in a safe location. If you want the feeder to be near enough for you to view it from your house, place it within 3 ft (0.91 m) of your window. If you want to give the birds more space, place the feeder about 30 ft (9.1 m) from your home. [5] X Research source
- Also, keep the blinds in your home at least halfway closed during the day so the birds will be less likely to fly through the window. [6] X Research source
-
Maintain the feeder. It is important to change the food frequently and clean the feeder with soap and water every few weeks. Otherwise, bird droppings, fungus, and bacteria can contaminate the feeder and the food, potentially sickening birds. Be particularly vigilant during wet weather, when damp food is more susceptible to mold. For the same reason, and because it attracts undesirable animals, food that has fallen to the ground should be cleared away. [7] X Trustworthy Source The Cornell Lab of Ornithology Research lab of Cornell University dedicated to interpreting and conserving the Earth's biological diversity through research and education about birds Go to source
-
Provide grit. Birds lack teeth and many instead rely on an organ called a gizzard to digest food. To work properly the gizzard needs grit – bits of sand, gravel, or other small stones. You can help by offering insoluble grit (e.g. small pieces of gravel) or soluble grit (like cuttlebone, crushed oyster shell, or crushed eggshell). Eggshell serves a dual purpose by giving the birds calcium needed for egg-laying. [8] X Research source
Advertisement
-
Plant native trees, shrubs, and plants. Use a local field guide or call your local Audubon Society chapter (if you live in the United States) to find out what grows naturally in your region, and add these plants to your garden. Native trees, shrubs, and plants are more likely to attract birds than non-native trees, shrubs, and plants. A variety of native trees, shrubs, and grasses will also provide natural shelter and cover for birds. [9] X Research source
- Evergreen trees and shrubs like hollies make great homes for birds over the winter.
- Many birds are attracted to fruit and berries, so consider planting an apple tree or planting a blueberry bush.
-
Build a birdhouse or nesting box. Different species nest in different places, so it is a good idea to conduct research on the type of bird you wish to attract. If you plan to buy a birdhouse or build a nesting box, take note that boxes with different holes, shapes, and orientations will attract different species. Such a box can be mounted to a tree or hung from a pole. Make sure that the box is up no later than February if you are in a southerly location; if in the north, hang it in March.
- Make sure that your nest site has adequate ventilation and is supplied with a "baffle" and reinforcement ring at the opening. This will prevent predators from entering.
-
Create a nesting site using natural materials. If you would like to create a more natural nesting spot, an easy way to do it is to allow your yard to grow a bit wilder. Let the grass grow in a certain spot or build a brush pile. This simulates the type of habitat where birds nest in the wild. You might alternately heap branches into a large pile or create sites under your bushes by raking mulch around the base. [10] X Research source
- Consider supply nesting material such as string, hair, or other fibers, or stuff mesh bags with pieces of yarn or string, straw, pet fur, small bits of cloth, or anything else that a bird might use to nest.
- Don't remove dead trees unless they are a danger. Standing dead trees are important nesting and foraging spots for many species, especially woodpeckers, which eat the insects that infest dead trees.
Advertisement
-
Provide a water source. Birds are attracted to the sound of dripping or moving water. [11] X Research source You can buy a birdbath or create a shallow pond with a fountain. Make sure it is close to the ground and not made of slippery material. If you are short on time or resources, hang a water-filled container with a hole on the bottom above a dish. Try not to place the water source near trees or bushes where cats might hide. Also, make sure the water is not more than 1 inch (2.5cm) deep. [12] X Trustworthy Source The Cornell Lab of Ornithology Research lab of Cornell University dedicated to interpreting and conserving the Earth's biological diversity through research and education about birds Go to source
- Consider using a heated water source during the winter. For the sake of sanitation, find a bath that is easy to clean. Ensure that the water does not become stagnant or harbor algae. [13] X Trustworthy Source The Cornell Lab of Ornithology Research lab of Cornell University dedicated to interpreting and conserving the Earth's biological diversity through research and education about birds Go to source
-
Avoid pesticides. Pesticides are harmful to birds in more ways than one. First, they kill vital sources of food for some species. Second, the chemicals in the pesticides can be dangerous for birds to ingest. In order to attract birds to your property, use natural forms of insect control instead of chemicals on your lawn, trees, and shrubs. [14] X Trustworthy Source National Audubon Society Nonprofit environmental organization focused on conservation, citizen science, and public science education Go to source
-
Keep predators away. Snakes, raccoons, and rats prey on songbirds or their eggs, killing millions every year. No matter how hospitable your yard may seem, having a predator prowling around will act as a disincentive. Hole restrictors, baffles, and tube entrances are good ways to secure birdhouses. Mounting the house well above ground and using predator repellent are two added safeguards.
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Search
-
QuestionHow can I keep birds from flying into my window?Jeff Jones is a Bird Specialist based in Nashville, Tennessee. He is the writer of BirdOculars, a website dedicated to helping people become better birders. He has over 18 years of experience and specializes in feeding birds and wildlife. Jeff experiments to find ways to encourage birds he wants to study and his website help others to do the same.Make sure your feeders are not too close or too far away. Also, use blinds in your windows—keep them drawn halfway throughout the day so birds can't see a clear path through your home.
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
Advertisement
Video
Tips
- Don't be discouraged if birds don't immediately come to your sanctuary. Birds are often wary of changes in their environment and will take time to adjust to the new feeder or bath.Thanks
- Keep your feeders, houses, and water sources clean.Thanks
- If you don't have the motivation, time, or resources to create a bird sanctuary in your yard, you can always contribute to a "communal" bird sanctuary. Donate money and/or volunteer hours to conservation organizations such as The Nature Conservancy that buys tracts of land and saves them from development.Thanks
Submit a Tip
All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
Name
Please provide your name and last initial
Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
Advertisement
Warnings
- Avoid disturbing eggs or nest if you come across them.Thanks
- Your nest boxes should not be too close together. Birds can be territorial and over-proximity can lead to conflicts.Thanks
- Never add antifreeze to a birdbath during winter. Antifreeze is highly toxic and will kill any bird, animal, or pet that drinks it, and can cause severe damage or death in humans as well. You can buy heaters designed to defrost ponds, fountains, or birdbaths. Floating a tennis ball in the water will also allow you to break and remove ice easily.Thanks
Advertisement
References
- ↑ http://www.allaboutbirds.org/types-of-bird-seed-a-quick-guide/
- ↑ Jeff Jones. Bird Specialist.
- ↑ http://www.allaboutbirds.org/how-to-choose-the-right-kind-of-bird-feeder/
- ↑ http://www.allaboutbirds.org/types-of-bird-seed-a-quick-guide/
- ↑ Jeff Jones. Bird Specialist. https://www.birdoculars.com/help-me-stop-window-collisions/
- ↑ Jeff Jones. Bird Specialist. https://www.birdoculars.com/help-me-stop-window-collisions/
- ↑ http://www.allaboutbirds.org/how-to-clean-your-bird-feeder/
- ↑ https://birdsnways.com/a-bit-about-grit/
- ↑ http://www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds/attracting/landscaping/songbirds
About This Article
Article Summary
X
If you want to attract birds, try installing a bird feeder in your yard. Install the feeder in a safe location, approximately three feet from your house so birds don’t fly into windows. The feeder should also be far enough away from tree cover to prevent squirrels from reaching it. You can use a variety of food in the feeder, including corn, suet, sunflower seeds, and millet. Make sure to clean the feeder regularly so the food remains free of disease. To learn more from our Veterinarian co-author, like how to create new nesting spots for birds, keep reading!
Did this summary help you?
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 421,340 times.
Reader Success Stories
- "Lots of ideas for things I can do in the garden to attract birds, with very good ideas on what to feed them. We have two pairs of robins nesting in the garden, and both are incubating eggs at the moment. They sit on the trellis and squeal until we put out seed." ..." more
Advertisement
100%
of readers found this article helpful
.
Click a star to add your vote
% of people told us that this article helped them.
"Lots of ideas for things I can do in the garden to attract birds, with very good ideas on what to feed them. We have two pairs of robins nesting in the garden, and both are incubating eggs at the moment. They sit on the trellis and squeal until we put out seed."
..."
more
"Very clear information and tips, and very good pictures. Any idea/suggestion on how to keep rats away? Had to stop feeding the birds because of them and don't know what to do with all the seeds in the garage!"
..."
more
"Great article! Everything is detailed and easy to understand. I always was interested on how to attract birds to my garden and this is the only article which was the best! Thanks for the article!"
..."
more
"So clear and easy for my kids to learn from. We did buy a struck on a window. I do not see it in here so we are going to buy others and start learning about how to feeds birds."
..."
more
"Every point in the article helps to attract birds in different ways according to the vicinity. For me, feeding was easier as birds come for eating grains. Thank you, wikiHow!"
..."
more
